In defense of foreign aid

In the Opinion page article, "What a Deal! Cut Foreign Aid," Dec. 11, the authors state that we provide foreign aid because we are generous "by nature." In fact, we are simply pragmatic.Foreign aid gives us enormous leverage in negotiating tariff and trade agreements, environmental and other global policies, prices for natural resources, and protection for US investments abroad. We also provide aid to countries we have identified as militarily advantageous. Emily Sims, Des Moines, Iowa Letters are welcome. Only a selection can be published, subject to condensation, and none acknowledged. Please address them to "Readers Write," One Norway St., Boston, MA 02115.